February 3rd is the day of Setsubun. Setsubun refers to the day before the beginning of each season. The literal meaning of the word Setsubun is division of the seasons and out of all the 4 Setsubun days. Risshun is the most special day. Back in the day, the Japanese new year started on Rishhun, modern day New Year’s Eve was the Setsubun day of Risshun. Setsubun signifies the ending of winter and the beginning of spring. Also Setsubun is the coldest day of the year. Please be careaful not to catch a cold.
Today, we show you the Setsubun culture and we hope you try them during your stay in Japan !
*Oni: a devil like creature from Japanese folkore.
It is believed that *Oni come when the seasons change in Japan. There are many rituals to exorcise these oni and the rituals differ in each region. We Japanese usually do the throwing roasted soybeans as a one of the our culture. Throwing roasted soybeans was the first practiced back in the Heian period, to stop oni from attacking villages by throwing beans at their eyes. The term oni refers to an invisible negative vibes called Jaki in Japanese. To get rid of the oni, people scatter roaster soybeans both inside and outside of their houses. Also these roasted soybeans are called Fukumame. In order to instill god’s power in the Fukunokami, they are to be placed on the household alter until Setsubun. Traditionally, the husband or the male person of the year rook part in the practice, but it has now became a family-wide event to take in good luck for all family members. The phrase “Out with the devil ! In with good fortune” is said when throwing soybeans.
Once the beans are thrown, gather them all up and eat the same number of beans as your age. Eat one extra to keep you from sickness and stay healthy for the whole year.
Ehomaki is a sushi roll that is believed to be good luck when eaten on Setsubun day. This custom began in the Kansai area but now it has become a nationwide event and Ehomaki is sold at supermarkets and convenience stores. Other names are “Maru Kaburi sushi” and “Kippo maki”. When eating Ehomaki, look in the year’s good luck direction, and eat quietly while making a wish. Ehomaki should no be cut. and this represents not cutting any good bonds in the furure.
How did you like it ?
We hope you are interested in these culture. February 3rd will be coming soon, so please try to find Ehomaki in nearest convenience stores or supermarket. I’m sure that you will be health this year.
